Injection of medication or other substance into Tenon's capsule
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Injection of medication or other substance into Tenon's capsule
Summary
In this procedure, a medication or other therapeutic substance is injected into Tenon's capsule, a thin membrane that envelops the eye. It is commonly done to treat eye-related conditions by delivering medication directly to the area around the eyeball.
Purpose
- Medical Condition or Problem Addressed: Treats various ocular diseases such as inflammation, infections, or certain types of eye pain.
- Goals or Expected Outcomes: To reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, treat infections, or provide long-lasting medication control directly to the eye.
Indications
- Chronic uveitis or other inflammatory eye diseases.
- Severe or resistant infections.
- Painful eye conditions that require localized treatment.
- Intraocular pressure control in specific glaucoma cases.
- Patient criteria include those who have not responded to topical medications or require localized treatment.
Preparation
- Pre-Procedure Instructions:
- Patients may be advised to fast for a few hours before the procedure if sedation is used.
- Review current medications and adjust as recommended by the healthcare provider.
- Diagnostic Tests or Assessments:
- Complete eye examination.
- Blood tests or imaging studies, if deemed necessary.
Procedure Description
- The patient is seated or lying down comfortably.
- The eye area is cleaned and prepped to maintain a sterile environment.
- Local anesthesia is applied to the eye to minimize discomfort.
- A small needle is used to inject the medication or substance into Tenon's capsule.
- The procedure typically uses fine needles and syringes specifically designed for ocular injections.
- The injection process itself is brief, taking only a few minutes.
Duration
The entire procedure usually takes about 10 to 20 minutes, with the injection portion lasting only a few minutes.
Setting
Performed in an outpatient clinic or a specialized ophthalmology office.
Personnel
- Ophthalmologist (eye specialist) performs the procedure.
- A nurse or medical assistant may assist the ophthalmologist.
Risks and Complications
- Common Risks: Mild pain or discomfort, redness, and temporary blurred vision.
- Rare Risks: Infection, bleeding, increased intraocular pressure, and damage to ocular structures.
- Management: Most complications can be managed with medication or additional treatments as necessary.
Benefits
- Expected Benefits: Reduction in inflammation, pain relief, control of infection, and targeted treatment delivery.
- Timeline: Benefits may be observed within a few days to weeks, depending on the condition being treated.
Recovery
- Post-Procedure Care: Application of cold compresses, avoiding rubbing the eye, and using prescribed eye drops.
- Expected Recovery Time: Most patients recover within a few days, but full healing may take up to a week.
- Restrictions & Follow-Up: Avoid strenuous activity for a short period and attend follow-up appointments as scheduled.
Alternatives
- Other Treatment Options:
- Oral or topical medications.
- Surgical interventions for severe cases.
- Pros and Cons:
- Alternatives may be less invasive but might be less effective for localized treatment.
- This procedure provides direct delivery of medication, ensuring higher efficacy for certain conditions.
Patient Experience
- During the Procedure: Mild discomfort and pressure, but generally well-tolerated due to local anesthesia.
After the Procedure: Mild soreness and redness; pain management includes over-the-counter pain relievers and prescribed eye drops.
Careful adherence to post-procedure instructions and follow-up visits can ensure optimal recovery and treatment efficacy.